Project Description

Current construction practices in Canada are shifting to see a trend of mid-rise, wood-frame structures. Masonry and wood can complement each other’s strengths as they have for centuries in Europe. Like any composite material, there are things to consider when integrating the two materials to ensure lasting performance. This technical aid is for designers who are estimating the differential movement between the wood-framing and masonry components in low-rise and mid-rise wood-frame buildings.

Addressed in this guide is the differential movement between masonry veneers and the wood frames as well as differential movement between concrete block elevator shafts, stairwells, and firewalls which may be integrated with woodframing. Wood-frame buildings are safe but can be even safer by constructing three critical elements out of concrete block (stairwells, 2-hour firewalls, and elevator shafts) in addition to the wood-framing which is already in place at these aforementioned locations.